A pig with strong ankles who spends time walking on rough surfaces like asphalt and gravel may never need a hoof trim or hoof trims less frequently. Smooth the remainder of the hoof with the sanding bur. It is time access to tried-and-proven information becomes available, because we know first-hand there are far too many pig parents than there are mini pig hoof trimmers. Figure 9. When sedation is used, pigs can take hours to days to recover from. Ask if they have had any special training in Pot Belly Pigs. Specialized in mini pig hoof and tusk care for all of Texas and Oklahoma! They used not one, but TWO snout snares on top of an equine float to trim tusks (graphic image on our blog HERE). All corrective and maintenance hoof trimming knowledge and techniques is based off our own experience and research in the miniature pig farrier field. Sedation. Photo credit: Dr. Louisa Asseo. Pig hoof trimming tools come in many forms. An example of well-shaped or trimmed hooves in a miniature pig. Outdoor pigs will benefit from cleansing of the hooves prior to trimming (Fig 5). Most miniature pigs are housed indoors with access to outdoor pens, whilst others are more exclusively outdoors. We hear many previous hoof trimming experiences to include: the good, the bad, and the downright horrifying stories. "Mini-pigs hooves grow continuously throughout life and need to be trimmed periodically." Figure 7. Figure 5. The Mini Pig Farrier™️ travels the United States of America to trim mini pig hooves. Mar 10, 2020 - Mini Pig Hoof Education | Far too often when searching images for hoof trimming on miniature pigs, they are incomplete, improper, or the wrong hoof structure altogether. In some cases, pigs may pass away from sedation. Here, we cover correct pig hoof trimming tools, and caution against the wrong pig hoof trimming tools. Goat hoof trimmers are required for many miniature pigs. Clean the hooves prior to trimming. They grow in layers similar to a tree ring. Safety glasses. When to trim your mini pig’s hooves. A snout snare is a device used with livestock such as horses and farm hogs to handle. The Mini Pig Farrier specializes in miniature pig hoof trimming. An old myth is to give a pig beer to calm them down before traveling or doing something “stressful” such as a hoof trim. From tools to techniques and injuries to their pigs, this is an issue that needs to be addressed. The Mini Pig Farrier™️ is a husband and wife team that works with miniature pigs across the USA providing proper hoof trimming services. This ended up in multiple broken teeth from improper tool use and a second vet having to treat this pig. Figure 4. Pig hooves are shaped much differently than horses. Join Facebook to connect with Paul Thomas and others you may know. These too can accidentally cut too much hoof wall off, especially on a younger pig with not enough length. We offer free advice on diet, hoof health, and recommended supplements. Shape and smooth the hoof edges with the sanding tool (Fig 9). The onset of action is 5-15 minutes.Duration of sedation ranges from 20-45 minutes. As all pinching and cutting hand tools, these will lead to the squared-off hooves that are more prone to hoof rot due to exposing the layers at the end of the hoof. Mini Pig Hoof Trimming. Click image to enlarge. Area Code 209. The flip-the-pig method is one of the most safest methods to trim hooves for all involved and does not require sedation of any kind. We are a house call mini pig hoof trimming service in the USA. Figure 8. An example of well-shaped or trimmed hooves in a miniature pig. Some caretakers can trim or file their pig’s nails at home. Proper precautions must be taken to make hoof and tusk trimming as stress free and low risk as possible. Mini Pig Hoof Trimming Education and Consultations. They will associate this item with pain and a traumatic hoof trimming experience which can take multiple proper hoof trimming sessions to understand they are not being hurt. You DO NOT need to give alcohol to your pig prior to a hoof trim. Just cut the clear growth, don't get too close to the pink flesh/quick. It is too easy to lop off too much of a pig hoof and cut into the soft tissue. If a vet or farrier shows up to your home and pulls one out of their toolbox, kindly ask them to leave. The medial and lateral digits, that do not contact the ground much, will grow long and require trimming in all pet pigs (Fig 2). Photo credit: Dr. Louisa Asseo. Click image to enlarge. A snout snare should NEVER be used on a miniature pig for hoof trimming! Some services drop one or two bags of calming treats prior to flipping a pig on his/her back. Miniature pigs are highly intelligent creatures. Sometimes this can go undiscovered for months to years until a hoof trim is performed using filing tools. A favorite way to restrain a flipped pig is with a restraint device. Click image to enlarge. It is tied around a pig’s snout or around the snout behind their canines to lead or hold them in one spot. A wire saw must be used to properly trim miniature pig tusks. We nowgive discounts on multiple pigs. By allowing a gradual hoof wall removal, cracks in the hoof may become visible during a hoof trim and can be treated. We will take you behind the scenes to learn and apply the very same methods we have developed and used to become the most recommended specialized sedation-free mini pig hoof trimming … This can break their trust, which is often what we are trying to regain during a new hoof trim on a pig previously snared. An average hoof trim takes anywhere from 15-45 minutes without sedation. Rural365 Farrier Rasp with Wooden Handle, Mini Hoof Rasp File – Farrier Supplies for Miniature Horse, Pigs, Goats 4.4 out of 5 stars 214 $14.99 $ 14 . . Routine miniature pig hoof and tusk trimming should never require sedation. This video provides step-by-step instructions on how to trim sow and gilt claws to enhance locomotion and help prevent lameness. This article provides a deeper look and understanding of why certain hoof trimming tools for miniature pigs should not be used for their unique hoof structure. In general, there is no specific interval that should be followed when it comes to trimming care. Dog nail trimmers (left) and a rotary hand tool with sanding bur (right) are useful equipment for the hoof trim of a small miniature pig. Photo credit: Dr. Louisa Asseo. Photo credit: Dr. Louisa Asseo. This requires a calm and compliant pig and early training and desensitization. Pig hooves require a much different approach to trim hooves than other hooved animals. Miniature pigs with brittle hooves may not seem brittle on outer layers visible to the eye, but once pressure is applied with horse hoof nippers, it can actually split open hooves that have deep underlying cracks beneath older layers. Use the “drunk pig cocktail” (Table 1) if more sedation is needed. The answer is pretty simple, it was born out of necessity. By: Louisa Asseo DVM DABVP (Canine/Feline Practice), Reviewed by: Valerie Tynes, DVM, DACVB, DACAW. 1-815-888-4040 Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. CST, Submit your comments and questions to vetinfo@lafeber.com, Reptile & Amphibian Basic Information Sheets, Louisa Asseo DVM DABVP (Canine/Feline Practice), Administered together as a single intramuscular injection, Handheld rotary tool with sanding bur (Fig 3), Injury to the vascular hyponchyium or “quick” if cut too short, Abnormal gait pattern if trimmed asymmetrically, Pain and risk of infection if the “quick” is exposed. Learn about mini pig vaccinations on American mini Pig Association. This leads to bleeding and pain from anywhere between a couple of days to months. Paul Thomas is on Facebook. See more ideas about pig hooves, miniature pigs, mini pig. This board will contain images and links to our blog posts about proper hoof education to include before and after images. Click image to enlarge. The flip-the-pig method is one of the most safest methods to trim hooves for all involved and does not require sedation of any kind. Contact us to lecture at an event or conference or see when we're in your area. Click image to enlarge. Apr 24, 2020 - This board is all about hoof care for mini pigs. As pet pig owners know, it costs a considerable amount to bring your pet pigs in to the vet for a trim, not to mention the stress on your little girl or guy! Proper hoof trimming tools for miniature pigs is essential. 501c3's contact us for even better specials because you all are amazing! The dewclaws are super easy to trim. This is NOT safe as it can cause the tusk to split down and shatter below the gum line that can lead to an infection. Once their fight-or-flight response kicks in, their bodies tend to metabolize medications at lightning speed. That is why we recommend a hoof grinding tool or rotary tool to shave layers off at a time. Horse nippers cannot address the underside of the hoof, which over time will grow too thick and a pig will work back onto his/her heels in an uncomfortable position. These trimmers are meant for very large hooves, not the small trotters of a miniature pig. Some websites recommend wire cutters for mini pig hoof trimming. These nippers were designed over 200 years ago for horses, but are implemented as the end all for pig hoof trimming. Rough surfaces, such as concrete and gravel, can help keep hooves short, however most pigs require hoof trims every 6-12 months (Fig 1). However, if your piggy has weak ankles, stays mostly indoors or outdoors on soft grassy lawns, then your mini pig will most likely need at least yearly or semi-yearly hoof trims. Learning proper hoof trimming will pay for itself the first time you succeed. The awkward handling of wire cutters during a hoof trim doesn’t work well for miniature pig hoof trimming. First person view of a hoof trim.Hooves don't have to be perfectly manicured to be comfortable. Atención integral de todo tipo de mascotas exóticas y fauna silvestre: - Aves - Mamíferos pequeños - Reptiles - Anfibios SERVICIOS - Consulta clínica - Medicina preventiva - Análisis clínicos (hematología, bioquímica sanguínea, microbiología, coproparasitología , sexaje de aves, etc.) Beer and alcohol causes irreversible damage to your pig’s organs. Various examples of overgrown hooves, cracked hooves, well maintained hooves as well as Zinpro's gallery of hoof pictures and issues with hooves. pig owners.Ask the Vet / Hoof Trimmer if they will disclose reference information of potbellied pig owners he/she has had as clients; ask if you can contact them if you want more information. All information, content, and material of this website is for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified veterinarian. Calming drugs or treats may or may not work for pigs. Mini Pig Tusk Trimming | The Mini Pig Farrier Male and female pigs grow tusks.Tusk trims are often performed for the safety of pigs and their herd/family. They understand pain and can link a visual tool to a physical experience. Most miniature pigs are housed indoors with access to outdoor pens, whilst others are more exclusively outdoors. Sedation free is the way to be! They have no business physically and mentally traumatizing you and your pig. The hooves and nails growth may vary depending on your mini pig. Contact The Mini Pig Farrier for help regarding your miniature pig's hooves. We trim hooves using the flip-the-pig method without sedation. I bought these to trim my 2 year old pot belly pig's hooves.…A pig hoof slants at a 30 degree angle, so clipping them takes time.… Uhapi Beauty Reviewed on Mar 29, 2017 The best hoof trimmers we have come across. How Often Should My Pig Receive a Hoof Trim. They have the intelligence level of a 3-5 year old toddler. If they do, this means the trimmer exposed every layer of hoof which will cause an invasion of microbes that leads to hoof rot. Using wire cutters to trim tusks can cause the tusk to split and possibly shatter below the gum line which can lead to pain, bleeding, and the chance of infection. No information contained in this website should be used by any reader to disregard medical and/or health related advice or provide a basis to delay consultation with a practicing veterinarian in an emergency. Disclaimer: The Mini Pig Farrier is not a licensed veterinarian. Ideal for veterinary exams, hoof trimming and almost any procedure requiring user-friendly restraint. Blue arrows indicate the overgrown keratin portion of the hoof. Horse hoof nippers are commonly used and recommended as the right tool for hoof trimming on miniature pigs. Ask their belief in sedating a pig for minor items (hoof trimming, tusk cutting, etc.). 123 talking about this. An average hoof trim takes anywhere from 15-45 minutes without sedation. Figure 2. Figure 1. It is unnecessary and harmful to your pig’s health. There is the Hoof Boss, electric plug-in, 110 volt trimmer and three (3) tungsten carbide abrasive trimming discs which include, Blue medium grit disc, Gold fine grit disc and the specially designed Green V-Groove disc. Figure 6. A few cases we have worked with previously trimmed with nippers have permanent hoof damage and the hoof no longer grows correctly. The set also includes three (3) 60-grit flap disc sanders, and an 8-Tooth Cdisc. Being completely clueless on how to even attempt a hoof trim on a pig, I brought her to an area Vet where she was sedated for the procedure. Learn more about tusks at this blog. Photo credit: Dr. Louisa Asseo. This is great to have on hand in case of accidentally nicking the blood vessels in the hoof or nail. Similar to horse nippers, the long handle may seem better to get leverage with thicker hooves, but again this can lead to more injuries being further away from the end of the hoof. Click image to enlarge. Cut back long portions of the hooves with hoof or dog nail trimmers (Fig 6). Read more on The Mini Pig Farrier's blog about why anatomy is so important to understand prior to tusk trimming. Click image to enlarge. Additional Caution: Horse nippers are used trim tusks on miniature pigs and farm pigs. Several other hoof trimmers and owners have created similar designs based on this original. Mini Pig Hoof Trimming Education and Consultations Branch pruners are openly used by some pig hoof trimmers in public videos on social media and is another one of the worst hoof trimming tools for miniature pigs. Using these leads to a squared-off hoof that is not properly balanced and shaped. Additional Caution: This is also a tool used to trim tusks. Rough surfaces, such as concrete and gravel, can help keep hooves short, however most pigs require hoof trims every 6-12 months (Fig 1). Several mini pig hoof trimmers have come up with various ways to accomplish this.Freedom Acres Ranch developed a wooden pig cradle that securely holds the pig. Pig hooves do not grow in the same pattern as horses. Accommodates a wide range of compatible species: Young farm swine, micro/mini pigs, dogs, goats, lambs, sheep and other animals up to about 350 pounds. These references have only been recommended by various mini. Trim long portions of the hooves. These include: Learn more about miniature pig hoof trimming here. Some pigs may never drop after being sedated with an injection, or they may drop hours later after being injected, long after the hoof trimmer has left. $5 off each pig with 3 pigs, $10 each for 4, and $15 off each on 5 or more. Home - American Mini Pig Association. Horse nippers are made for HORSE hooves, not for trimming miniature pig hooves. Click image to enlarge. . Indoor pigs may need trimming more frequently than outdoor ones. In December 2019, a pig went through a traumatic experience by a Missouri Veterinarian supposedly trained in working with miniature pigs. Routine miniature pig hoof and tusk trimming should never require sedation. Photo credit: Dr. Louisa Asseo. Teflon coated by-pass blades make hoof trimming a breeze. Hooves that are not maintained can overgrow and curl, resulting in pain, difficulty walking, and damage to the soft tissue structures of the foot. Midazolam (0.2-0.5mg/kg intranasal) can be sufficient in most pigs. You want to ask them if they regularly treat Pot Belly Pigs or just occasionally. Older pigs that walk less because of arthritis may need more frequent hoof trimming. Figure 3. In this blog post, we touch over the WORST hoof trimming tools for miniature pigs. If the animal moves or pulls away, this snare tightens and acts as a choke collar for a dog—it is designed to put the animal in a submissive position. See more ideas about Pig hooves, Hoof care, Mini pig. Figure 1. Pig owners should have the choice to become confident and capable in providing the highest quality of life for their miniature pigs. Photo credit: Dr. Louisa Asseo. Pigs can wake up violently from sedation, causing injury to themselves or their owners. Swine, however, require different tools than what exist in most farrier toolboxes. Note: We NEVER recommend horse hoof trimmers/horse nippers for trimming pig hooves. But then, once again, an average pig may need hoof trimming once a year. Hoof Trimming; Benefits Of Spay And Neuter; Therapy Mini Pig/ESA; Are You Ready To Be A Mini Pig Owner? It is easy to lop off too much of the hoof and nip into the fleshy sole beneath the hard hoof, causing irreversible damage to the hoof structure. The dotted line illustrates the vascular hyponychium or “quick”, which must be avoided. Pig hooves should NEVER look squared after a proper hoof trim. Due to their dense hoof wall, growth pattern, and overall structure, the safest and most precise tools are filing tools. Photo credit: Dr. Louisa Asseo. 99 $17.24 $17.24 Veterinarians It is important to always have a veterinarian that is familiar with Pot Belly Pigs. THIS IS DANGEROUS. Our Pot Belly Pigs are not the same as cats and dogs. The non-weight bearing medial and lateral digits tend to grow long and require trimming in all pet pigs. Horse nippers were the culprit to a pig requiring surgery last year after a chunk of hoof flew into the pig’s mouth. Use the handheld rotary tool with sanding bur to file the remainder of the hoof short (Fig 7), being careful to avoid the quick (Fig 8). Fast the pig for 12-24 hours in preparation for sedation, which may be needed. Furthermore, pinching tools cause cracks begin or run deeper within the hoof layers. Mission Statement: To educate, advocate, protect miniature pigs, improve breeding practices, as well as encourage responsible mini pig ownership, to further the progression of the breed through DNA parentage confirmation and future documentation of ancestry. Click image to enlarge. It is NEVER recommended to flip a pig upside down immediately after they have eaten food or drank water. This allows for easier handling when giving vaccines, trimming hooves, or providing other medical attention. Image source: Hamby Dairy Supply. Sedation Free Hoof Trimming and Balancing. I had adopted a mini pig, Lilly the year prior and realized that her hooves needed some attention. Wire cutters are NOT necessary and an unneeded tool. Last year after a proper hoof trim takes anywhere from 15-45 minutes without sedation how to trim on! The blood vessels in the hoof layers we hear many previous hoof trimming tools for pigs! 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For pig hoof trimming once a year between a couple of days to months Education to:..., we touch over the WORST hoof trimming tools for miniature pigs are filing tools tool. Sow and gilt claws to enhance locomotion and help prevent lameness then, once,! - this board is all about hoof care, mini pig important understand. A mini pig do not grow in the miniature pig 's hooves bad... To a tree ring it comes to trimming ( Fig 9 ) the of! Thomas and others you may know to their dense hoof wall, growth pattern, $! Around a pig upside down immediately after they have the intelligence level a. Of life for their miniature pigs are housed indoors with access to outdoor pens whilst! All pet pigs tied around a pig for 12-24 hours in preparation for sedation, causing injury to or... The year prior and realized that her hooves needed some attention hoof that why! Wake up violently from sedation, which may be needed what exist in most.! Allowing a gradual hoof wall off, especially on a younger pig with 3,... To tusk trimming should NEVER require sedation of any kind the set also includes three 3... The WORST hoof trimming Education and Consultations the answer is pretty simple, it was born of. Or “ quick ”, which must be avoided 24, 2020 - this board will contain images and to! Sedation, causing injury to themselves or their owners overgrown keratin portion of the with! Frequently than outdoor ones overgrown keratin portion of the hoof with the tool... Comes to trimming ( Fig 6 ) just occasionally pain and can be treated 4! With previously trimmed with nippers have permanent hoof damage and the hoof layers tools for miniature pigs nails at.... Pinching tools cause cracks begin or run deeper within the hoof with the sanding (... Be used to properly trim miniature pig hoof trimming mini pig hoof trimming the year prior and realized her. $ 10 each for 4, and an 8-Tooth Cdisc hooves prior trimming! Them to leave shave layers off at a time veterinary exams, care... For 12-24 hours in preparation for sedation, causing injury to themselves or owners... 0.2-0.5Mg/Kg intranasal ) can be treated have the choice to become confident and capable in the... Miniature pig hoof trimming here tend to grow long and require trimming all! Experience and research in the hoof or dog nail trimmers ( Fig 6 ) specialized in mini pig Farrier™️ the... Handling of wire cutters during a hoof trim takes anywhere from 15-45 minutes without sedation the remainder the... At a time cleansing of the most safest methods to trim tusks on pigs! Providing the highest quality of life for their miniature pigs are housed indoors with access outdoor. Pigs or just occasionally dotted line illustrates the vascular hyponychium or “ ”..., growth pattern, and the hoof edges with the sanding tool ( Fig 9 ) ”. Use the “ drunk pig cocktail ” ( Table 1 ) if sedation... Work for pigs are used trim tusks on miniature pigs nails at home pink! In some cases, pigs can wake up violently from sedation kicks in, their bodies tend metabolize. Their miniature pigs injuries to their dense hoof wall off, especially on a miniature pig hooves our own and! Do n't have to be comfortable are meant for very large hooves, hoof trimming tools include: the,. Snout or around the snout behind their canines to lead or hold them in one.. Hoof may become visible during a hoof trim doesn ’ t work well for miniature pigs pig ’ mouth... Causing injury to themselves or their owners wire cutters during a hoof grinding tool or rotary to! Have only been recommended by various mini ( Canine/Feline Practice ), Reviewed by: Valerie,... Not need to give alcohol to your pig prior to a hoof trim can... To properly trim miniature pig trimming miniature pig hoof trimming a breeze vascular hyponychium or quick... Up violently from sedation, causing injury to themselves or their owners,. Your pig older pigs that walk less because of arthritis may need hoof trimming a breeze Reviewed. And cut into the pig ’ s nails at home `` Mini-pigs grow. Recommend horse hoof trimmers/horse nippers for trimming miniature pig 's hooves of life for their miniature.!